Continuing my obsession filled Q&A’s with the cast of “True Blood,” today I bring you an exclusive interview with Ryan Kwanten, who plays Jason Stackhouse on the brilliant HBO drama that’s quickly hurtling towards its season finale.

Last night’s second-to-last episode was a huge one for Jason as he saw his new best bud literally and figuratively murdered in cold blood by his girlfriend right before she met a nasty end herself. He has now voluntarily locked himself in jail since Amy’s nighttime murder convinced Jason that somehow, even with no memory of the crime, he’s the man behind Bon Temps’ recent crime spree. Although fans know differently – discuss!

Pop Wrap: Looking back, what were your first thoughts upon reading the pilot script?

Ryan Kwanten: You open the first page and see that it was written by Alan Ball and immediately – after the first paragraph – you know that you’re not just reading something special, but something out there and different. It was like nothing I had ever read before so it was a no-brainer in terms of wanting to play Jason and to be a part of the whole phenomenon.

PW: Were you familiar with the books?

Ryan: Not prior to reading the script. Alan’s was the first take I had on this world but since getting the role, I’ve read the books.

PW: Speaking of pants, I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that you never really seem to wear any on the show.

Ryan: Yea, it’s still somewhat of a shock walking into the wardrobe trailer every day. I’m used to seeing an array of clothes hanging up for me to choose from and just seeing a modesty patch on the coat hanger is something you never get used to. But I am putting myself in Mr. Ball’s careful hands so it’s never just nudity for nudity’s sake – it always comes from a strong story point.

PW: Did knowing that you’d be undressed in 75% of your scenes turn you into a gym rat or anything?

Ryan: I’m not a big fan of the gym, I do lots of outdoor aerobics – yoga, swimming, running – but I kinda hate talking about it. We have a term in Australia, it makes you sound like a wanker.

Keep reading for more from Ryan – including some spoiler filled chatter about next Sunday’s season finale!

PW: And the love triangle that formed with you two and Eddie the vampire was genius.

Ryan: For me, I love getting to play this change in Jason. Going from this real redneck point of view with vampires and life to no longer understanding where Amy’s coming from and sympathizing with the vampire and befriending him.

PW: And now they’re both dead and Jason’s in jail. Do you think he just feels lost?

Ryan: The world that he thought he knew up until this point is basically shattered. He’s thrown into a 180 and he learns a darker side to humans and a softer side to vampires.

PW: And in the season finale?

Ryan: His instincts kick in and he sees the light.

PW: Jason has lost so much – his parents, his grandmother, his sister to some degree – but last night was the first time he ever seemed saddened by a loss. Do you see him as a very internal person?

PW: The network does seem to be behind the series, getting a second season pickup after just two episodes have aired is quite rare

Ryan: Yea, that was a real vote of confidence, not just for us, but for the fans as well because it allows them to fully invest in the characters and the stories. And I think the ratings have gone up and up every week since HBO made that decision.

PW: As a fan it offers incredible reassurance that it’s OK to get invested. Have there been any types of fans that surprised you?

Ryan: It’s interesting because the vampire underworld and people who are into the books are watching – they were givens to tune in, but coming from Australia, I didn’t get how huge cable was. So the cross section of society that has embraced the show is amazing. Everyone from teenagers to older couples, it’s astounding.

PW: They must be surprised when you open your mouth and an Australian accent comes out though

Ryan: Yea, it’s rather interesting. They take a few steps back and reassess me. But it’s all part of the beast.

PW: That reminds me, is it true that at some point during the novels Jason turns into a monster, right?

Ryan: Yes, he turns into a werepanther. I guess I’m going to have to not shave from now on.

PW: So you’re open to playing Jason as a werepanther if that’s where the story goes?

Ryan: I’m happy to leave myself in the capable hands of the writers, I’m an actor, I’m down to change!

PW: Plus how many people can put on their resume, “Jason Stackhouse. Werepanther?”